HMB

HMB (Beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate) is an amino acid, but derives from the breakdown of Leucine, a part of normal dietary protein. HMB can be also found in certain foods like catfish, alfalfa and it is also a natural component of mother's milk, but is scarcely found in a normal diet. HMB was discovered in the 1950's and has been studied for several decades, but has only really become popular as a sports supplement around 1995.

HMB has been proven to slow down the breakdown of muscle protein as well as promote muscle gain, which means that it has both anti-catabolic and anabolic qualities. Early studies have shown that HMB supplementation also lowers cholesterol and helps strengthen the immune system.

Scientific Studies into HMB (Hydroxymethyl Butyrate)

In a controlled scientific study, 41 male volunteers aged 19 to 29 were given 0, 1.5, or 3 grams of HMB everyday for 3 weeks. The participants also lifted weights 3 days a week for 90 minutes. The results suggested that HMB could enhance strength and muscle mass in direct proportion to intake.

In another controlled study reported in the same article, 32 male volunteers took either 3 grams of HMB daily or placebo, and then lifted weights for 2 or 3 hours daily, 6 days a week for 7 weeks. The HMB group saw a significantly greater increase in its bench-press strength than the placebo group. However, there was no significant difference in body weight or fat mass by the end of the study.

1 x level MP Plastic Scoop (small) weighs 1.8g.